Shakespeare and Rome

About this event

Shakespeare and Rome Tuesday 21 April 2026 1:30pm – 1.55pm | 3pm – 3.25pm Included in general admission to the Yorkshire Museum | Book Tickets Suitable for all ages Celebrating York’s Roman history, inspired by Roman objects in the Yorkshire Museum, and performed on the historic mosaic floor, this short play ‘Friends, Romans, Yorkshiremen, Shakespeare, York and Rome’ explores questions of history and memory, and the importance of the seemingly insignificant – through the words of Shakespeare. Shakespeare wrote four Roman plays and a long poem, all set in and around Rome, and the Roman empire. He also leant liberally on Roman writers such as Ovid and Plautus for context and comedy. During his education, he learnt about the recorded history of Roman rulers and leaders, and their battles, exploring questions of personal dilemma and individual responsibility. 'Shakespeare and Rome' is a collaborative project between York Museums Trust and York International Shakespeare Festival.

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